Apostasy

Definition: Apostasy comes from Greek words meaning standing away and, in the context of ancient history, refers to the denunciation of their religion by early Christians during the Roman Imperial persecutions of Christians. While this was a reasonable and life saving act, not all Christians were willing to forgive and forget -- especially when it meant an apostate priest was going to perform sacred rites. The Donatists, in particular, rejected the idea that apostates could serve as priests.